Massillon hires French as new baseball coach

The Massillon Tigers have turned to Neall French, who spent two seasons in the New York Yankees’ farm system, to direct their high school baseball team next spring.

The Independent

Writer

Posted Aug. 10, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 10, 2013 at 10:04 AM

Posted Aug. 10, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 10, 2013 at 10:04 AM

MASSILLON

The Massillon Tigers have turned to Neall French, who spent two seasons in the New York Yankees’ farm system, to direct their high school baseball team next spring.

Superintendent Rik Goodright announced French, a St. Ignatius graduate, was hired by the Massillon City School District to replace former coach Ryan Hartzell.

“Neall will be an excellent addition to the Massillon City Schools athletic department,” Goodright said in a release. “His professional experience, as well as his desire to build character and life skills, will help create a well-rounded and successful group of student-athletes.”

French spent the 2008-2009 seasons in the Yankees system, hitting .345 in 35 games at the rookie-level Gulf Coast League in 2008. He finished his minor league career with a .269 average, 5 homers and 37 RBIs in 99 games.

“My passion is the development of the young player and person,” French said in a release. “I also strive to assist my players in finding the best opportunity to continue their careers at the next level, whether that is college or professional baseball. I look forward to meeting and working with the student-athletes here at Massillon.”

After his professional career, French went on to become president/owner of Midwest Pelicans Baseball, where he works with young players looking to hone their baseball and life skills. French also is president/owner of All-Prospect Baseball, which specializes in organizing and hosting elite-level baseball tournaments and showcases for 15-18-year-old players.

After high school, French played for Grand Rapids Community College and the University of Cincinnati.